For families with young children / Winter–Spring
Winter slowly turning into spring is one of the most peaceful seasons in the Ina Valley. Soft light fills the traditional kominka rooms, and the quiet surroundings make it especially comfortable for families traveling with young children.
Here is a gentle, family-friendly 2-night, 3-day model plan.
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【Day 1｜Arrival & Settling In】
As you enter the kominka, you are welcomed by deep quietness and warm natural light across the tatami floors. After placing your bags in the spacious Japanese-style room, take a slow walk through the house. Children often begin exploring right away—opening doors, peeking into rooms, or stepping out into the small garden.
The garden becomes an instant playground: collecting leaves, running around, or simply enjoying a new space.
As evening approaches, begin preparing your irori-style dinner at your own pace. This traditional hearth-style meal is arranged for easy and safe family cooking. If your child gets restless, the home theater offers a calm break.
After a warm bath and bedtime, the house becomes completely still. This is the perfect moment for adults to sit by the wood stove with a glass of wine—a simple but luxurious quiet time.
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【Day 2｜A Slow Morning】
Soft morning light fills the house. Cooking breakfast together becomes part of the travel experience. (A breakfast option is also available.)
After breakfast, enjoy relaxing on the engawa—a porch-like wooden space—while children play freely indoors.
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【Late Morning–Noon｜Seasonal Fruit Picking】
Drive 10–20 minutes to nearby fruit farms. Depending on the season, enjoy strawberry or apple picking. These farms are easy and fun even for very young children.
On the way back, stop by a local farmers’ market to buy fresh vegetables and ingredients for dinner.
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【Afternoon｜Returning to the Kominka】
Back at the house, let your child nap while you read, enjoy tea, or rest quietly. As evening comes, prepare dinner together in the kitchen or at the hearth again.
Nighttime in the kominka is peaceful and warm. Some families choose this evening for a small celebration such as a birthday or anniversary.
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【Day 3｜A Gentle Morning Before Departure】
On the final morning, enjoy an easy breakfast with bread from a local bakery. Let your child play one last time while you pack your bags slowly.
As you step outside, the scenery of the Ina Valley offers a soft farewell. Many families say this is the moment they feel, “We’d love to visit again in another season.”
